The Washington Nationals are close to an agreement with the Philadelphia Phillies to acquire the rights to closer Jonathan Papelbon. Barry Svrluga from the Washington Post first noted that a deal was in the works.
Papelbon does have a full no trade clause but it appears he will waive his no trade after being adamant for wanting out of Philadelphia. At the moment we are unaware at the moment what Philadelphia will be receiving in return.
The Nationals will now strengthen their pen moving closer Drew Storen to the 8th inning. The Nats may have felt pressure to do something after the Mets landed Tyler Clippard yesterday. Papelbon does have a vesting option for 2016 that will keep him in Washington D.C. next season.
Nick Pivetta will go to Philadelphia in return.
